Specimen Required

Two or more biopsies from same site and sent in 1 specimen
vial will be processed as 1 specimen. Two or more biopsies from
different sites require separate specimen vials, however, they can
be ordered together. Test performed on each site will be billed
accordingly.

1. Collect biopsy of uninvolved or involved skin. Refer to
Recommended Biopsy Site Selection Based On Disease State below.

2. Immediately place specimen into liquid nitrogen and allow to
freeze thoroughly (do not allow specimen to desiccate). If liquid
nitrogen is not available, specimen may be frozen by placing it on
a small square of aluminum foil on a block of dry ice. Liquid
nitrogen is preferred.

3. Immediately wrap specimen carefully in aluminum foil. At no
time should the specimen be allowed to thaw.

4. Place the wrapped specimen into the prelabeled plastic vial
and seal tightly.

3. Lupus erythematosus: Involved areas of skin such as
erythematous or active borders are preferred biopsy sites to
confirm the diagnosis of lupus erythematosus, either discoid or
systemic. Label as involved skin. Avoid ulcers, old lesions, and
facial lesions, if possible. Uninvolved, nonexposed skin is the
preferred site to detect a lupus band as may be found in systemic
lupus erythematosus. Should unexposed skin be desired, buttock or
medial thigh is suggested. Label as uninvolved, nonexposed
skin.

5. Vasculitis and urticaria: The erythematous or active
border of a new lesion is preferred. Avoid old lesions and ulcers.
Label as involved skin. If appropriate, skin lesion is not present,
diagnosis may sometimes be made from uninvolved skin.

Reference Values

Day(s) and Time(s) Performed

Monday through Friday; 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Analytic Time

2 days (not reported on Saturday or Sunday)

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester

Test Classification

This test was developed using an analyte specific reagent. Its
performance characteristics were determined by Mayo Clinic in a
manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been
cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.